There is much debate over what exactly defines a ‘documentary’, stemming from the overlaps and hybridity exhibited by different modes. We examine some of the more commonly accepted modes or subtypes of documentary as a form, but first of all we need a working definition of the term ‘documentary’.
In my opinion, documentary is, broadly speaking, a sub category of nonfiction-it is a form that tells stories, makes assertions or observations about the real historical world, rather than the fabricated worlds of fiction.
It is often believed that a documentary must use literal ‘actuality’ footage-images and sounds recorded as they happened- and it is certainly the case that a great many documentaries do rest on this foundation of things observed and recorded.
Documentaries can and do use a variety of techniques as fits their aims and purpose-explicit argument, more allusive or associative connections between things, dramatic reconstruction, and different levels of filmmaker intervention in the reality they are interpreting.
It is often believed that a documentary must use literal ‘actuality’ footage-images and sounds recorded as they happened- and it is certainly the case that a great many documentaries do rest on this foundation of things observed and recorded.
Documentaries can and do use a variety of techniques as fits their aims and purpose-explicit argument, more allusive or associative connections between things, dramatic reconstruction, and different levels of filmmaker intervention in the reality they are interpreting.
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